Reflection for Sunday 06/28/09
READINGS
First Reading: Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24
Second Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:7, 9:13-15
Gospel: Mark 5:21-43
REFLECTION:
It was at great personal risk that both Jairus and the “woman afflicted with hemorrhages” approached Jesus. People in the crowd surrounding Jesus would have been shocked to see a synagogue official throw himself at the feet of Jesus and beg him to heal his daughter. Jairus knew that his peers in the synagogue would have been scandalized by this public act and may have even ostracized him. The woman who had been hemorrhaging for twelve years would have been considered “unclean”. She would rarely have appeared in public. She knew that if she were recognized she would have been treated harshly. Yet, she sought out Jesus. Don’t you admire the faith of these two who trusted so completely that Jesus could and would respond to their pleas that they risked everything to get close to him? Am I as brave as they were? How willing am I to openly display my trust in God? Am I fearful that God will not answer my prayers? Am I concerned about how my friends and family will react if I demonstrate my faith more openly? Perhaps we need to remember Jesus’ words to Jairus, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.“
1. When have you felt enriched by a sacrifice you made for another?
2. Whom could you help by your acts of kindness this week?
PRAYER:
Jesus, Healer and Savior, grant me the faith of Jairus. Let me turn to you in times of anxiety and fear, trusting always in your loving care for me. Amen